- Attraction: Cozy Inn Chinese Restaurant
- Location: 214 W Milwaukee St, Janesville, WI 53548
- Industry: Chinese Restaurant
- Website: https://www.facebook.com/CozyInnRestaurant/
Walking through downtown Janesville, you might easily miss the steep staircase that leads to one of Wisconsin’s most remarkable dining treasures.
Cozy Inn opened its doors in November 1922, making it the oldest Chinese restaurant in Wisconsin and the second oldest continuously operating Chinese restaurant in the United States.
You’ll climb 20 steps to reach this second-story gem, where round booths and authentic Cantonese cuisine transport you to a different world entirely.
The Fong family has lovingly preserved this piece of history since 1975, when Tom Fong’s mother, Marie Shum, took over the business. Marie was a renowned head chef at famous Milwaukee establishments like Toy’s Restaurant, the Golden Dragon, and Golden Palace before bringing her culinary expertise to Janesville.
Today, Tom and his wife Amanda continue the tradition, serving authentic southern Cantonese dishes that represent a disappearing cuisine in America.
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Keep Exploring →Legendary Menu Highlights
The Famous Egg Rolls: These legendary egg rolls remain the most popular item on the menu and take two days to make using a closely guarded family recipe. You’ll discover a perfect fried consistency with a hint of sweetness that creates an absolutely memorable experience. One devoted customer who relocated to Las Vegas returns multiple times yearly, ordering 75 pre-frozen egg rolls to take back home!
Beef Cantonese Chow Mein: This historic dish represents authentic southern Chinese cuisine that’s becoming increasingly rare. Unlike newer Chinese restaurants that use sweeter plum sauces, Cozy Inn maintains the traditional neutral, salty, tangy taste of genuine Cantonese cooking that appeals to purists.
Signature Soups: The hot and sour soup and egg drop soup consistently earn exceptional reviews from diners, with portions large enough to share. The hot and sour soup delivers remarkable flavor complexity that impresses even the most discerning soup enthusiasts.
Paper Chicken: This unique appetizer features dark chicken meat wrapped in aluminum foil and marinated in plum and teriyaki sauce, creating an incredibly juicy and flavorful treat that stands out from typical Chinese appetizers.
Classic American-Chinese Favorites: You’ll find exceptional versions of pineapple duck, chicken fried rice, chicken chow mein, and chicken chop suey. Main courses arrive piping hot with generous portions that deliver outstanding value for families and groups.
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Discover MoreAtmosphere & Décor
Historic Round Booths: You’ll settle into private round booths that make you feel like you’ve stepped into a different world and time. These unique seating arrangements create romantic intimate spaces or secluded spots perfect for business meetings and special occasions.
Timeless Interior: The traditional décor maintains that authentic appearance as if it hasn’t been touched since the restaurant opened in 1922. You’ll enjoy dimmed lighting that creates a cozy, personal atmosphere throughout the dining room.
Historic Building Character: The restaurant occupies the second floor above O’Riley and Conway’s in a charming downtown Janesville historic building. An old pay phone booth now serves as a unique photo display area, adding to the nostalgic charm and conversation-starting elements.
Other Considerations
Excellent Value Pricing: Families of five consistently enjoy complete meals for around $35-$40, representing exceptional value in today’s dining landscape. The pricing remains remarkably reasonable considering the generous portions and quality preparation methods.
Accessibility Considerations: The steep staircase to the second floor presents challenges for some visitors, though the restaurant accommodates takeout customers by bringing orders downstairs when needed. Despite the climb, most guests find the exceptional food makes the effort completely worthwhile.
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Keep Exploring →Multi-Generational Appeal: Families have enjoyed Cozy Inn for four generations, with customers spanning from young children to seniors in their 70s. The menu appeals to different age groups, with older generations favoring chop suey and chow mein, middle-aged diners preferring spicier Hunan and Sichuan dishes, and younger customers gravitating toward sweeter options like orange chicken.
Reservations & Service: You can make reservations for planned visits, and the restaurant offers both delivery and takeout options. The establishment consistently wins local newspaper Reader’s Choice awards for Best Chinese Food and Favorite Asian Restaurant in the Janesville area.
Cozy Inn Chinese Restaurant
📍 214 W Milwaukee St, Janesville, WI 53548
